The A2 motorcycle licence is often the right next step if you are 19 or over and want to move beyond learner riding. It gives you a full motorcycle licence for medium powered bikes, with no L plates, the option to carry a pillion passenger and the ability to use motorways on a suitable machine.
What is an A2 licence?
The A2 licence is a full motorcycle licence with a power restriction. It is available from age 19 and allows you to ride a motorcycle with a power output up to 35kW, which is around 47bhp. The bike must also have a power-to-weight ratio of no more than 0.2kW per kg.
If the motorcycle has been restricted to meet A2 rules, it must not come from a model that originally produced more than 70kW. In plain English, you cannot take a very powerful superbike and restrict it down for A2 use if the original power is above that limit.
Once you pass A2, you are no longer riding as a learner for that category. You do not need L plates, you can carry a pillion passenger if your motorcycle and insurance allow it, and you can ride on motorways on a suitable A2 machine.
Who is the A2 licence for?
The A2 route suits riders who are at least 19 and want a proper step up from a 125cc learner bike. It is common for riders who have completed CBT, gained some road experience and now want a more capable motorcycle for commuting, longer journeys or everyday riding.
It can also suit riders who want a route to a full Category A licence. After holding A2 for two years, you can take a further practical test to upgrade to Category A through progressive access. Riders aged 24 or over can take Category A directly through Direct Access.
If you are still comparing your options, our A1 licence course page explains the 125cc full licence route, while our DAS full licence course page explains the unrestricted Category A route.
What can you ride on an A2 licence?
On a full A2 licence, you can ride motorcycles up to 35kW, provided the power-to-weight and original power rules are met. Many riders choose a purpose-built A2 bike, while others use a motorcycle that has been properly restricted.
Before buying a bike, check the exact power output, weight, restriction paperwork where relevant, insurance requirements and whether the model is suitable for A2 use. Do not rely only on engine size. A motorcycle’s legal category is based on power and power-to-weight ratio, not just cc.
The A2 licence route step by step
1. Complete CBT
CBT is the first practical step for most learner riders. It introduces the basic controls, on-site riding, road awareness and a supervised road ride. After completing CBT, you can ride up to 125cc with L plates while your CBT certificate remains valid. You can read more on our CBT course page.
2. Pass the motorcycle theory test
Before taking the DVSA practical tests, you need to pass the motorcycle theory test. This includes multiple-choice questions and the hazard perception test. Good theory knowledge helps with road positioning, signs, junctions, speed choices and planning ahead.
3. Pass Module 1 and Module 2
Module 1 is the off-road manoeuvres test. It includes slow control, controlled stops, cornering, an emergency stop and an avoidance exercise. Module 2 is the on-road riding test, where the examiner looks at how you deal with real traffic, road positioning, observations, junctions and general riding judgement.
What motorcycle do you use for the A2 test?
The A2 practical test must be taken on a larger motorcycle of at least 245cc, producing between 20kW and 35kW. It must also meet the A2 power-to-weight requirements. This is why training schools use suitable A2 training bikes rather than standard 125cc learner motorcycles.
Moving from a 125cc to an A2 test bike can feel like a big step at first. The extra weight, stronger brakes, different clutch feel and increased acceleration all need respect. With good instruction, most riders settle once they understand smooth throttle use, balance, braking and observation.
A2 compared with CBT and Category A
CBT allows learner riding, usually up to 125cc, with L plates and learner restrictions. A2 is different because it is a full licence category. Once you pass, you can remove L plates, carry a pillion and use motorways on a suitable motorcycle.
Category A is the unrestricted motorcycle licence. You can take it directly from age 24 through Direct Access, or you can upgrade from A2 after holding it for two years by taking a further practical test.
How much does A2 training cost?
Course prices can change depending on the training package, test availability, motorcycle hire and the amount of training needed. We do not recommend choosing a course only by price. The right course should match your current riding ability, confidence and test readiness.
For current course options and prices, please visit our A2 motorcycle licence course page.
Frequently asked questions
Can I ride on motorways with an A2 licence?
Yes. Once you have passed the A2 practical tests and hold the full A2 licence, you can ride on motorways on a suitable motorcycle. You must still make sure the bike is legal, insured and appropriate for the journey.
Do I need L plates after passing A2?
No. A2 is a full motorcycle licence category. Once you pass, you do not need L plates for A2 riding.
Can I carry a passenger on an A2 licence?
Yes. A full A2 licence allows you to carry a pillion passenger, provided your motorcycle is designed for a pillion, you have the right insurance and your passenger wears a legal helmet.
Does A2 automatically become a full Category A licence?
No. Holding A2 for two years makes you eligible for progressive access, but you still need to take a further practical test to upgrade to full Category A. If you are 24 or over, you can take Category A directly through Direct Access.
Book your A2 training
If you are ready to move up from learner riding, we would be pleased to help you choose the right A2 training route. Our team can talk you through CBT, theory, Module 1, Module 2 and the training time that is likely to suit your experience.
You can book training at our seven centres across London and Hertfordshire, including Alperton, Croydon, Edgware, Eltham, Wimbledon, Dagenham and Hoddesdon. To get started, contact Universal Motorcycle Training and we will help you plan your next step.